'Prophet' fears Covid-19 infection in cells

'Prophet' fears Covid-19 infection in cells LEANDREA LOUW

WALVIS BAY



Self-proclaimed prophet, 30-year-old Kaetanus 'Dr Atomic Bomb' Shilimela from Eternal Glory Ministries, who together with his two co-accused stands accused of defrauding five women of about N$800 000 between August and September 2019, says he is living in fear of contracting Covid-19 while in police custody.

In an affidavit in which he urges to be released on bail, Shilimela claimed he will be severely prejudiced if he remains in custody.

“I might be exposed to the Covid-19 virus and be infected. This will severely affect my constitutional right to life. My continued incarceration can only prejudice me and creates no benefit for the State,” 'Dr Atomic Bomb' said.



Allegations untrue

Shilimela also said the allegations levelled against him are untrue.

“I vehemently deny the allegations of fraud, theft by false presentences and the acquisition, possession or use of proceeds for unlawful activities. I have no knowledge of any evidentiary materials which may exist with regard to the allegations levelled against me,” he said in his affidavit, while claiming he is not a flight risk.

“I have resided in Namibia all my life and I have no intention to relocate to any other country. I love my country, family and friends. My mother, four brothers and two sisters all live in Walvis Bay. They are my support system.”



Cop mom

Shilimela submitted that his mother is a Namibian police officer based in the human resources department at the Walvis Bay police station and said he has never committed any criminal offences in Namibia or elsewhere.

“There are no outstanding cases other than the present [one] being investigated against me by the Namibian police. I maintain good relationships with people and I bear no grudges against anyone. I am not inclined to violence.

“I am a well-known prophet and there is no possibility that I will even think of not standing trial, should there be one.”

The matter has been postponed to 4 September for further bail submissions, and a ruling is expected on 9 September.



Third suspect appears

Meanwhile, a third suspect has been arrested in the fraud and forgery case.

The suspect, Hinomtu Simeon Shilongo, joins Shilimela and 30-year-old Luckas 'Shocks' Showa in the dock.

Shilongo was arrested in Windhoek and was brought to Walvis Bay where he made his first appearance in the local magistrate's court this past Friday.

Magistrate Rhivermo Williams postponed Shilongo's case to 24 August for a formal bail application.



leandrea@republikein.com.na